Pioneer Woman Whiskey Meatballs

These Pioneer Woman Whiskey Meatballs are sweet, smoky, and saucy with just the right bourbon kick. Simmered low and slow in a bold blend of chili sauce, BBQ, apricot preserves, and whiskey, they’re the kind of party-perfect appetizer that disappears fast. Whether you serve them at game day, holiday parties, or weeknight dinners, they’re always a hit—and couldn’t be easier to make in your slow cooker!

Why You’ll Love These Pioneer Woman Whiskey Meatballs

• Sweet and savory flavor bomb. The combo of whiskey, chili sauce, BBQ, and apricot preserves is insanely good.
• Effortless prep. Toss everything into your slow cooker—done!
• Perfect for any occasion. Appetizer, main dish, party food—you name it.
• Frozen meatball magic. No need to roll or brown, just open the bag and go.

Ingredients

• ¾ cup bourbon whiskey (or whiskey of your choice)
• ¾ cup chili sauce
• ½ cup apricot preserves
• ½ cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• 26 oz bag frozen Italian or traditional-style meatballs
• Thinly sliced green onion, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Pioneer Woman Whiskey Meatballs

1. Serve and garnish. Top with sliced green onions if using. Serve warm.
2. Mix the sauce. In a medium slow cooker, combine the whiskey, chili sauce, apricot preserves, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire, vinegar, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the meatballs. Stir in the frozen meatballs until well coated.
4. Cook low and slow. Cover and cook on high for 2 hours or low for 4 hours, until meatballs are hot and the sauce is bubbling.

Expert Tips

• Control the heat. Add more chili powder or a splash of hot sauce if you like it spicier.
• Make it homemade. Swap in your favorite homemade meatballs—just be sure they’re fully cooked before slow cooking.
• Adjust sweetness. Prefer it less sweet? Reduce the apricot preserves slightly.
• Bourbon flavor. Choose a whiskey you enjoy drinking for the best flavor payoff.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy BBQ Meatballs: Add Sriracha or red pepper flakes for an extra punch.
• Cranberry Whiskey Meatballs: Use whole cranberry sauce instead of apricot for a holiday twist.
• Meatball Sliders: Tuck a few meatballs into slider buns with melted cheese for a main dish upgrade.
• Veggie Version: Use plant-based meatballs and the same sauce combo for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Stovetop Method: Simmer everything in a large pot over medium-low heat for 30–40 minutes.

Storage Instructions

• In the Fridge: Cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• In the Freezer: Freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Reheat Whiskey Meatballs

• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 3–5 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a covered saucepan over low heat until hot.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• Can I make these meatballs spicy?
  Definitely! Add hot sauce, cayenne, or red pepper flakes to taste.
• Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?
  Yes—just make sure they’re fully cooked before adding to the sauce.
• What kind of whiskey should I use?
  Bourbon is ideal for its sweet depth, but any whiskey will work based on your taste.
• Can I use fresh garlic instead of powder?
  Absolutely. Mince 1–2 cloves and add with the other sauce ingredients.
• Can I make these alcohol-free?
  Yes! Sub the whiskey with apple juice, beef broth, or a mix of both.

More Pioneer Woman Recipe:

• Pioneer Woman Chipotle Salsa
• Pioneer Woman Chow Chow Recipe
• Pioneer Woman Hamburger Potato Casserole

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 383
• Sugar: 22.4 g
• Sodium: 1131.2 mg
• Fat: 20.7 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Carbohydrates: 36.8 g 
• Fiber: 3.1 g
• Protein: 14.3 g
• Cholesterol: 60.8 mg